Safety Issues for Field Workers

Introduction

The primary responsibilities of a field worker are to show up for a project fully prepared and be mindful of safety issues while working. While the field supervisor provides all safety protocols for field research, field workers should consider all aspects of their health and training and decide individually whether the research is safe enough for their participation. Any task that appears to be unsafe should be brought to the attention of the field supervisor or principal investigator during preparation for the activity. If a field worker fears injury in performing an assigned task, they should not do it.

Preparation

To adequately prepare for field research, a field worker should understand what the specific field research project entails and what safety concerns may arise. The field supervisor should provide each field worker with a written description and must provide an oral description of the project, including the general location where work will be conducted, the weather that is anticipated, the tasks to be performed, and the specific clothes and gear the field worker must bring to the job.

Field workers must provide the university with evidence of a satisfactory state of health and immunization status. Any physical limitations that might put the field worker at risk must be made clear to the field supervisor. Any medications that need to be taken during field research, as well as their side effects, must be made clear to the field supervisor.

Conduct During Field Research

Field workers must carry out the tasks assigned to them by the field supervisor using the appropriate protective equipment provided and following the specified procedures. Activities that put individuals or others at risk during field work are forbidden.

Post-trip Care

Workers are responsible for personal hygiene matters after field work is completed.